(|)shärˌzhādəˈfa(a)(ə)r, -ȧˌzh-, -zhā(ˌ)daˈ-, -fe(ə)r, -a(a)ə, -eə also (|)chärˌjˈā- or -ȧˌj- or -rz or -əz noun
( plural chargés d'affaires -zhā(z)(ˌ)d-, -jāz(ˌ)d-)
Etymology: French, literally, one charged with affairs
1. : a lower-ranking member of the diplomatic corps who directs diplomatic affairs during the absence of the ambassador or minister
2. : a diplomatic representative inferior in rank to an ambassador or minister accredited by the government of one country to the minister of foreign affairs of another